Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, is estimated to be up to 100 times stronger than morphine, making it an extremely dangerous drug when misused or illegally manufactured. Overdosing is extremely common.
Overdose: Due to its high potency, even a small amount of fentanyl can lead to an overdose, which can be fatal. The risk of overdose is particularly high when fentanyl is used without proper medical supervision or when unknowingly mixed with other drugs.
Respiratory depression: Fentanyl can slow down or suppress breathing, leading to respiratory distress or failure, which is the primary cause of death in opioid overdoses.
Addiction and dependence: Like other opioids, fentanyl can be highly addictive, leading to physical and psychological dependence on the drug.
Withdrawal: Abruptly stopping fentanyl after regular use can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can be uncomfortable and challenging to manage without proper medical support.
Health complications: Chronic use of fentanyl can lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems, cardiovascular complications, and negative effects on mental health.